How Much Does a Spare Key For Your Car Cost?
It can be a major inconvenience to lose your car keys. It is essential to have a spare in case you break or lose your primary key. How much does it cost to purchase a spare car key?
The answer depends on a number of factors. This article will help you determine whether it's worthwhile to have an extra.
Make
Having a spare key for your vehicle is always a good idea, since losing one could be a stressful and costly experience. However, the cost of having a spare key could vary depending on your vehicle's make and model and the kind of key you have.
Basic keys, for instance, that do not contain any technology are less expensive to replace as they require the simple cutting of a blank. They also don't need an encoding system that is specialized. A key that is integrated into a car fob or has a chip, will require programming, and will cost more.
If you've lost your key, the first step is to locate a local locksmith who has a machine that can program your type of key. Alternately, you could attempt to save money by having a new key cut and programming it yourself. You can find the procedure in the owner's manual or search online for "how do I program (your year model and year of manufacture) key." You could save up to $150.
Model
The model number of your car influences the cost of the spare key. For example, if you need a replacement key for a premium or luxury model, the cost will be higher than for an entry-level vehicle. The type of materials used to manufacture the key also impacts the price. It is less expensive to replace a blank than the key that has an integrated key fob. If you want to save money, many dealerships will also cut and program keys from third-party suppliers for you.
Year
It is important to have an extra car key, especially if you have children who may be locked in the car. You can obtain an extra car key in many ways, including going to the dealership where you bought your vehicle from or hiring an auto locksmith or purchasing one from the internet. Each option has its own costs and advantages. You must be aware of the type of key and the lock type prior to making a choice. In general, the more expensive the brand is and the more expensive it will be.
Key type
A spare key can allow you to avoid being in a bind if you lose your main car keys. However the cost of an extra car key could vary greatly depending on the lock type your vehicle is using as well as the kind of key you have.
Hardware stores and locksmiths can cut mechanical keys that work by inserting the key into the cylinder of ignition. They can cost as little as $10. The more expensive alternatives keys, also known as transponder keys or chip keys, have a small electronic chip in the key head that communicates with the vehicle to confirm it is a valid key. These keys are only able to be duplicated in dealerships since they have the equipment needed to program them.
Other advanced features, such as remote starters and mirror folding options, can be a factor in the overall cost of a replacement key. These features are useful if you tend to lose keys or put keys in odd places but can also increase the risk for theft. Consider putting your spare keys in a different place and make it a habit of emptying your pockets prior to getting into your vehicle. This way, you can be certain that your spare key will be in your possession when you need it.
Locks
A spare car key can be a wise choice. It can save you a lot of trouble in the event that you lose your keys or have them locked in the car. It is recommended to keep your spare key somewhere secure and easy to locate. For instance, a wall-mounted key holder or the kitchen drawer are both good places to put it.
get spare key made of lock you have on your vehicle can affect the cost of replacing a key. Keys that are traditional, which slide into a lock and open the doors to the car, are cheaper to replace than smart key fobs, which emit an electronic code that allows you to unlock the car or start it from an extended distance.
If you lose your smart keys you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or a dealership to get an alternative. They will have to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle, which may require proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
In the past it wasn't a huge problem to lose your car keys. With the advancements in technology of automobiles, it's not as simple to find an extra. It can be expensive to have a new key made by a dealer or locksmith. Here are some tips to help you determine how much it will cost to get a replacement car key made.
Dealership
It is essential to keep a spare car key handy, whether you lost your keys or they were stolen. You can save time and money in the long term. You'll also not have to call for a tow when you're stuck without a key. You have a few options to obtain a replacement key. These include dealerships, online services, and locksmiths. You must compare the cost and ease of these options before making a choice.
The cost will also depend on the type of key you require. Keys of the traditional type are cheap and simple to replace. More sophisticated keys are more expensive. Certain features, like mirror folding, alarm activation, and remote start may require special components, which are harder to locate or make. It's important to have an inventory of your immobilizer's code and the number of your key that will help lower the overall cost.
The most reliable method to obtain an extra car key is to go to the dealer that sells the brand of your car. You will get a key that's compatible with the system of your vehicle and is programmed correctly. It is more expensive than other options, however it is the most reliable way to ensure that you have a functioning key when you need it. Additionally, it is usually the only way to get the key for certain newer models of vehicles.